by Donna Clark RN, Director
God’s Kitchen is where H.O.P.E., Inc. came to fruition back in 1996. Through a blood pressure screening program, a need for health advocacy for the guests was recognized and our agency began. Yesterday at the soup kitchen God presented us a challenge. Priscilla Jackson, coordinator of the program and I were disturbed when two former client walked in the door. We had spent hours last year along with several other people trying to get this elderly couple into housing and health care. At that time they were living in their car and in other people’s apartments, both of them having serious health issues. In fact we were deeply concerned that she wouldn’t survive the winter. In collaboration with several county social and health agencies they were finally stabilized and his benefits began to arrive. You can imagine our disappointment when they came for lunch looking as if they had never been cared for. Priscilla and I felt very frustrated.
During the same period of time another former guest walked in who everyone loves. She is aristocratic in her carriage, very elderly, and the sweetest lady I ever met. She hasn’t been in for lunch for several months having been a regular for many years. I had contacted her daughter a while back and learned that she had been ill but living at home. When she walked in our hearts were lifted to see her smiling face.
Yesterday was a lesson in love, forgiveness, and patience. We can’t make people do what they don’t want but we can provide a place filled with love; a safe haven where they can find food for their bodies and souls. Thank you to everyone who volunteers at God’s Kitchen. This is a vital ministry that makes a difference in our community.
Deuteronomy 24: 19-21
H.O.P.E. 